Observers Foresee Crisis in Italy

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 265, 7 November 1941, Page 5

Observers Foresee Crisis in Italy

MOVE FOR BREAKAWAY FROM GERMANY United Press Association—Bv Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Received Thursday, 10.30 p.m. LONDON, Nov. 6. Relations between Hitler and Mussolini are strained, says tne Daily Telegraph’s Lisbon correspondent. Hitler though, not daring to risk the political repercussions of an open breach feels that he can no longer rely on Mussolini to carry out his instructions to keep Italy in subjection. Well-informed neutrals say that Senor Farinacci has become the instrument of German authority in Italy. He is stated to take orders directly from Hitler and communications and negotiations are coming from Berlin over the head of Mussolini.

Since the flow of Italian troops to Russia ceased Hitler has accused Mussolini of bad faith or inability to control his own military machine. Mussolini probably intended to comply with Hitler's request for one million troops but was checked by pressure at home. Meanwhile Farinacci has carried out wholesale dismissals of local government officials and many State and municipal employees have been transferred to the mainland from Sicily, giving credence to reports of a new political movement in Sicily. The correspondent continues:

“Many observers foresee a crisis in Italy. The upper ai*d middle classes feel that the war is already lost and the eventual result will be revolution in which the dynasty might succumb. Count Sforza is believed to be one of the men behind the move for an Italian breakaway from the Axis and a separate peace with Britain.”

The Moscow radio reports that an attempt was made on the life of Mussolini. Two revolver shots were fired and Mussolini was slightly injured. The German Gestapo has reinforced the Fascist police in Italy.